"'There is no need to bind me. I shall not run away. I am not afraid to die for France. I am sorry only that I did not kill you,' answered the lad stoutly. 'I am young—I can better be spared than others.'
"There was no reply to this, but the soldiers were ordered to lead the child out into the center of the square.
"'If you run you will be shot just the same,' warned the captain.
"'A Frenchman never runs away,' was the spirited retort.
"The firing squad took its place, eight men comprising the squad.
"'Make ready! Take aim!'
"Pierre faced them fearlessly, a smile on his face, his shoulders set well back, presenting a pathetic but brave little figure as he stood out there alone, facing death, but unafraid.
"'Fire!'
"'Vive la France!' shouted the lad, waving his cap over his head.
"Eight rifles crashed in volley. And the little figure of brave Pierre crumpled down to the ground. He had died gloriously. He had died a man, despite his tender years.